GPS Trackers Disabled—How Thieves Stole Millions

Florida law enforcement just dismantled a brazen criminal enterprise that ripped off nearly $8 million from truckers and businesses while Democrats’ soft-on-crime policies let cargo theft spiral nationwide.

Story Highlights

Six criminals charged in coordinated theft ring that stole $7.8 million in cargo across six Florida counties over two years
Major Theft Organization targeted 51 commercial vehicles and 28 shipments, disabling GPS trackers to resell stolen goods in South Florida
Attorney General James Uthmeier’s multi-agency crackdown brings accountability after thieves targeted Florida’s supply chain and hard-working truckers
Victory highlights how strong law enforcement partnerships protect commerce and livelihoods when prosecutors refuse to coddle criminals

Sophisticated Crime Ring Targeted Florida Supply Chains

Attorney General James Uthmeier announced charges against six individuals on February 12, 2026, for operating a Major Theft Organization that systematically plundered unattended semi-trailers, commercial vehicles, and even a vessel across Central and South Florida. Alayn Espinosa Lopez, Yerrison Perez, Yasser Mederos Garcia, Alexis Suarez Hernandez, Alejandro Valdes, and Arley Osmany Hernandez Relova face grand theft and conspiracy charges after investigators tracked 32 cargo thefts spanning May 2023 through March 2025. The criminal enterprise caused $7.8 million in losses by stealing retail merchandise, electronics, copper wire, HVAC equipment, cooking oil, food products, energy drinks, wine, and spirits—goods that fuel Florida’s economy and feed families.

Criminals Disabled GPS to Evade Detection and Resell Stolen Property

The theft ring operated with disturbing sophistication, targeting high-traffic logistics corridors in Orange, Broward, Polk, Osceola, St. Lucie, and Volusia counties where truckers and businesses park commercial trailers in unsecured areas. Thieves disabled GPS tracking devices on stolen vehicles and cargo, then transported the loot to South Florida resale networks to offload their ill-gotten gains. Florida Highway Patrol Colonel Gary Howze emphasized that these criminals “targeted hard-working Floridians” and “disrupted commerce,” driving up insurance rates and freight costs for everyone. This crime wave exploited post-pandemic supply chain vulnerabilities that left unattended trailers exposed in commercial zones and distribution centers.

Multi-Agency Investigation Brings Justice After Two-Year Crime Spree

The Florida Highway Patrol Cargo Theft Unit launched the investigation in May 2023 after reports of thefts from unattended semi-trailers in the Orlando area revealed a coordinated pattern. Working alongside Orlando Police Department, St. Lucie County Sheriff’s Office, Miami-Dade Sheriff, Daytona Beach Police, and the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, investigators tracked the ring as it escalated from isolated cargo hits to vehicle thefts involving GPS tampering. Florida Highway Safety Executive Director Dave Kerner praised the partnerships that dismantled the operation, noting the commitment to accountability. All six defendants now sit in custody facing potential 300-year maximum penalties—a clear message that Florida won’t tolerate criminals who prey on commerce and working people.

Victory for Law and Order in an Era of Rising Cargo Theft

This bust delivers immediate relief by halting the theft spree and pursuing restitution for victimized trucking firms, retailers, and suppliers across six counties. Attorney General Uthmeier declared the criminals “will now answer in court” for targeting “Florida’s supply chain,” reinforcing his tough-on-crime approach that contrasts sharply with the lax prosecution policies conservatives have watched cripple other states. Long-term, harsh penalties may deter similar operations and encourage investments in GPS technology and secure parking infrastructure. The case aligns with national concerns over cargo theft trends, including FBI-charged double-brokering schemes and congressional pushes for federal mandates, underscoring how strong state-level enforcement protects livelihoods and economic stability when federal oversight lags.